News 12’s sister company, Optimum Business, and the Long Island Association Foundation announced the two grand prize winners of the second annual L.O.C.A.L. small business grants.

The winners are Freeport Ninja Academy in Nassau County and Little Feet Big Steps in Suffolk County.

"I don't even have words," says president and owner of Freeport Ninja Academy Kathryn Gawrych. "For me, it means just being able to create an impact in my community."

Both businesses got $5,000 grants in the first round. Now, they're getting an additional $25,000.

It's all for the dedication for continued growth and dedication in their communities.

"The Optimum Government Affairs Group has been looking to invest into communities that we're invested in," says senior vice president of National Business Sales at Optimum Andrew Rainone.

Freeport Ninja Academy used their $5,000 for marketing purposes. Now, the $25,000 will go toward improvements to the facility, which the business hasn't been able to do since opening in January 2020.

Little Feet Big Steps, a licensed day care center, used the $5,000 grant for a greenhouse program. With the additional money, it is planning to replace its broken furnace and cover essential operating costs.

"On Long Island, we're a small business economy and if our small businesses are doing well, our whole region is doing well," says president of the Long Island Association Matt Cohen.